Leslie Nielsen, the famous actor, best known for his role in The Naked Gun series, has died today at age 84. The cause of death is said to be complications from pneumonia. His agent has issued the following statement:
We are sadden by the passing of beloved actor Leslie Nielsen, probably best remembered as Lt. Frank Drebin in THE NAKED GUN series of pictures, but who enjoyed a more than 60 year career in motion pictures and television.
As mentioned above, Nielsen is best known for The Naked Gun but moviegoers may recognize the name from another popular film, Airplane!, which is considered one of the best spoof films of all time. In the film, Nielsen delivered what is considered to be the 79th best movie quote of all time, according to AFI. I’m sure you’ve all heard the line, “I am serious. And don’t call me Shirley.” Well that was Nielsen who spoke it, in Airplane!
When Nielsen was at the top of his game, like he was in the aforementioned films, he was damn good and his passing is a loss to moviegoers everywhere. Rest in peace Leslie, you will be missed.